RF Tissue Modulation Devices and Methods of Using the Same

Abstract

Minimally invasive RF tissue modulation devices are provided. In some aspects, the devices include a hand-held control unit and an elongated member. The hand-held control unit includes an electrical energy source and the elongated member has a proximal end operably coupling to the hand-held control unit. The RF tissue modulation device is configured to generate a plasma at a distal end plasma generator for a therapeutic duration. In some aspects, RF tissue modulation devices are provided and include an adapter that operably couples to a hand-held medical device. The adapter generates RF energy for delivery to a plasma generator on an elongated member. Methods of delivering the RF energy to the internal target tissue site are also provided.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] Pursuant to 35 U.S.C. §119 (e), this application claims priority to the filing date of: U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61 / 323,269 filed on Apr. 12, 2010; the disclosure of which application is herein incorporated by reference.INTRODUCTION

[0002] Traditional surgical procedures, both therapeutic and diagnostic, for pathologies located within the body can cause significant trauma to the intervening tissues. These procedures often require a long incision, extensive muscle stripping, prolonged retraction of tissues, denervation and devascularization of tissue. These procedures can require operating room time of several hours and several weeks of post-operative recovery time due to the destruction of tissue during the surgical procedure. In some cases, these invasive procedures lead to permanent scarring and pain that can be more severe than the pain leading to the surgical intervention.

[0003] The development of percutaneous procedu...

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